Burnout Experienced by Military Nurses: A Systematic Review
Mollie F Christiansen1, Tanekkia Taylor-Clark2, Linda H Yoder3
1MAJ, Army Nurse Corps, College of Nursing, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing
|May 26, 2026
Summary
Burnout affects military nurses, with prevalence ranging from 1.7% to 13.8%. Factors like experience and work hours contribute, but inconsistent measurement methods limit understanding of military nurse burnout.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Research
- Military Health
- Occupational Psychology
Background:
- Burnout negatively impacts civilian nurses' physical and mental health.
- In military populations, nurse burnout can reduce individual and systemic readiness.
- Limited research exists on burnout among military nurses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and analyze evidence on burnout prevalence in active-duty military nurses.
- To identify individual characteristics associated with burnout among military nurses.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of peer-reviewed studies was performed.
- Studies were included if burnout was a primary aim and measured with a validated instrument.
Main Results:
- Five studies met the inclusion criteria.
- Burnout prevalence ranged from 1.7% to 13.8%, with significant variations in measurement and definitions.
- Increased experience, work hours, and non-day shifts may correlate with burnout; sex and status differences are inconclusive.
Conclusions:
- Inconsistent measurement hinders a clear understanding of military nurse burnout.
- Future research should explore alternative theoretical frameworks and measurement tools.
- Military-specific cultural factors may influence burnout mitigation.
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